Police in under age drinks crackdown

Complaints are still being made about anti-social behaviour at Fleetwood’s Marine Gardens.

Fleetwood Police highlighted the problem of vandalism, youth nuisance and under-age drinking in the gardens back in March and appealed to parents to keep track of their children.

This time, however, officers have tried an alternative tack and are using “disruptive tactics” by cracking down on licensed premises across Wyre which have been selling drink to under-age youths,

Police and licensing officials visited 13 stores in Fleetwood, Thornton and Cleveleys in response to concerns about the youths gathering in the Fleetwood seafront spot.

Test purchases were carried out in each location and five stores sold alcohol to a 15 year old volunteer.

A Lancashire Police spokesman said: “Staff members have been issued with an on the spot fine which they are responsible for paying.

“These premises will be re-tested over the coming months and if they fail could face prosecution, a fine of up to £20,000 or a closure order for up to 14 days.

“We endeavour to work with premises that sell alcohol to promote proof of age training and challenge 25 policies so that they can minimise the risk of selling alcohol to underage people.

“Unfortunately a small number of premises have fallen short of the standard expected and will be dealt with accordingly.

“However further and continued assistance will be provided to help prevent further offences being committed.”

The spokesman added: “Young people place themselves in great danger when they obtain alcohol, and can cause mayhem when in their drunken state. The Neighbourhood Policing Team will do all we can to stop this being a persistent problem.”